Bail bondsman indicted for battery

October 7, 2005

Freedom Newspapers

Clovis bail bondsman Hank Bayless was indicted Friday by a Curry County grand jury for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and breaking and entering, according to a press release from the Ninth Judicial District Attorney’s office.

Bayless, 63, is accused of shooting Javier Sanchez, 33, and a Hank’s Bail Bonds co-worker Sept. 20 while Bayless was trying to revoke Sanchez’ bond at a Clovis residence.

Bayless could face six years in prison and up to $15,000 in fines if convicted, according to the release. He will be arraigned within the next 30 days.

Bayless, who was booked at the Curry County Adult Detention Center on Friday and released on a $10,000 bond, could not be contacted Friday for comment.

District Attorney Matt Chandler said he brought the case to the grand jury because of conflicting testimonies.

“Due to the fact that there were conflicting statements between (Bayless’) employees and the individuals residing at the residence, I thought it was a case better fit for a grand jury to make determination of cause,” said Matt Chandler.

“I believe that, if there is probable cause that a crime was committed, the state needs to proceed forward with charges. It’s a matter of making sure justice is served,” Chandler said.

According to the district attorney’s office, Bayless went to the residence on 305 Gayland Drive in Clovis to attempt to take into custody Javier Sanchez, who was out on bond and did not appear for his court hearing. Bayless forced his way into the residence and pointed the gun at Sanchez’ head.

When Sanchez tried to run, Bayless fired two shots, the release said. Sanchez was struck in the back and Christina Snell suffered a leg wound.

Sanchez and Snell were treated at hospitals and released.
Sanchez is in custody at the detention center on a $10,000 bond.